Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
![Photo of Cristina Lanzillotta, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31a2bd13-3060-429d-96c3-fc555082f9c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cristina Lanzillotta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Not accepting new clients
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
![Photo of Karen Bendak, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1571955a-1474-46fc-bdb0-132bd9bc3183/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Bendak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Karen Bendak and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my Diploma in Nursing at Aria Health School of Nursing. This extensive three-year program provided me with comprehensive clinical knowledge. I then received my bachelor’s degree in nursing at Pennsylvania State University. After over a decade serving the mental health population I obtained my master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. I provide psychiatric evaluations, supportive therapy and medication management within a safe space to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship.
Hello! My name is Karen Bendak and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my Diploma in Nursing at Aria Health School of Nursing. This extensive three-year program provided me with comprehensive clinical knowledge. I then received my bachelor’s degree in nursing at Pennsylvania State University. After over a decade serving the mental health population I obtained my master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. I provide psychiatric evaluations, supportive therapy and medication management within a safe space to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Chris Pagnani - Chris Pagnani MD PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/470285b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
![Photo of Ifeoluwa Ajuwon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ce8ab3d-aade-4af5-8f46-e36839b1d91a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ifeoluwa Ajuwon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping clients enhance their quality of life. My approach is rooted in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowerment, and timely interventions. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is respectful, nonjudgmental, and focused on your well-being. By combining evidence-based guidelines with my clinical experience, I aim to provide you with the highest standard of care. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping clients enhance their quality of life. My approach is rooted in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowerment, and timely interventions. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is respectful, nonjudgmental, and focused on your well-being. By combining evidence-based guidelines with my clinical experience, I aim to provide you with the highest standard of care. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals.
![Photo of Erica Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83e85e22-3491-414a-ad53-1d8ab4083740/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Erica Johnson is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in the state of Pennsylvania. She completed her Bachelors of Nursing from Temple University in Philadelphia, P.A. She recieved her Masters of Nursing in Psychiatry from Walden University. She has over 11 years in the field of Nursing.
Erica Johnson is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in the state of Pennsylvania. She completed her Bachelors of Nursing from Temple University in Philadelphia, P.A. She recieved her Masters of Nursing in Psychiatry from Walden University. She has over 11 years in the field of Nursing.
![Photo of Zachariah Pranckun, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30c94e98-d7ec-4381-87b0-59d1a4379b3c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zachariah Pranckun
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified, academically oriented child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy and medication management services to clients located in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland. I use a comprehensive, collaborative, and holistic approach. Please note that I am only providing services through telemedicine. As of 9/1/2024, I will be accepting Aetna for residents of Pennsylvania.
I am a board-certified, academically oriented child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy and medication management services to clients located in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland. I use a comprehensive, collaborative, and holistic approach. Please note that I am only providing services through telemedicine. As of 9/1/2024, I will be accepting Aetna for residents of Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Alejandra Wortman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce628b51-9220-4caf-830b-d0df4c0925d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you or a loved one facing the daunting struggle of mental health challenges? I'm here to extend my hand, to listen without judgment, and to guide you through this transformative process. If the weight of depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning disabilities, or other difficulties feel like an insurmountable burden, you're not alone in this journey, and you don't have to carry this weight by yourself. Mental health isn't just about our minds—it's the cornerstone of our work, studies, and relationships. Seeking help and support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Together, we can explore and enhance your well-being; help you thrive!
Are you or a loved one facing the daunting struggle of mental health challenges? I'm here to extend my hand, to listen without judgment, and to guide you through this transformative process. If the weight of depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning disabilities, or other difficulties feel like an insurmountable burden, you're not alone in this journey, and you don't have to carry this weight by yourself. Mental health isn't just about our minds—it's the cornerstone of our work, studies, and relationships. Seeking help and support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Together, we can explore and enhance your well-being; help you thrive!
![Photo of Paula Bu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f5d0a18-a4a4-4f1a-893b-f873dfba766b/2/320x400.jpeg)
When depression, anxiety, or trauma overshadows your thoughts, it can be difficult to even imagine how life could be different. Whether you are struggling with work-life balance, relationships, or life transitions, I offer new ways of thinking and a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to live your most meaningful life. I also have significant experience treating college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color.
When depression, anxiety, or trauma overshadows your thoughts, it can be difficult to even imagine how life could be different. Whether you are struggling with work-life balance, relationships, or life transitions, I offer new ways of thinking and a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to live your most meaningful life. I also have significant experience treating college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color.
![Photo of Domonique Louis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca2f7a37-a7f4-4a22-acf4-a77c23bb61f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Domonique Louis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Domonique Louis APRN, PMHNP-BC has forged a distinguished career, blending academic excellence, community nursing, and synthesis of groundbreaking research in the field of psychiatry. She began her academic journey at the University of Memphis studying the development, structure and functioning of human society followed by a baccalaureate degree in nursing at Union University in Tennessee, laying the foundation for her passion for healthcare.
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Domonique Louis APRN, PMHNP-BC has forged a distinguished career, blending academic excellence, community nursing, and synthesis of groundbreaking research in the field of psychiatry. She began her academic journey at the University of Memphis studying the development, structure and functioning of human society followed by a baccalaureate degree in nursing at Union University in Tennessee, laying the foundation for her passion for healthcare.
![Photo of Michael W Huang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f53ca331-34c9-4e6b-8405-dbd806e5d521/3/320x400.jpeg)
Engaging in the journey of psychotherapy can feel formidable, but I believe that it can also be transformative, freeing, and full of surprises. I specialize in psychoanalytic or psychodynamic psychotherapy, where I work closely with you to explore unconscious parts of the self and patterns of being with others. This process can lead not only to relief from symptoms, but also achieve sustained, deeper changes. This often looks like the following: increased curiosity and creativity, a sense of wellbeing, improved satisfaction in relationships, pursuing life goals with more vigor and conviction.
Engaging in the journey of psychotherapy can feel formidable, but I believe that it can also be transformative, freeing, and full of surprises. I specialize in psychoanalytic or psychodynamic psychotherapy, where I work closely with you to explore unconscious parts of the self and patterns of being with others. This process can lead not only to relief from symptoms, but also achieve sustained, deeper changes. This often looks like the following: increased curiosity and creativity, a sense of wellbeing, improved satisfaction in relationships, pursuing life goals with more vigor and conviction.
![Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97a8fb16-b2ac-4055-b63b-a1614e87693d/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
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Life is a journey, it does not always go as we have planned or not. Each stage of life brings us different kinds of fulfillment as well as challenges. If you find yourself having difficulties in overcoming these challenges whether they are loss, trauma, or extreme stress related to school, work, relationships, you are not alone. When not dealt with, these challenges may interfere with your daily function and affect your capacity to achieve your potential. As a result, you may experience combination symptoms of insomnia, appetite and weight change, muscle tension and fatigue, inability to focus, depression, anxiety or more.
Life is a journey, it does not always go as we have planned or not. Each stage of life brings us different kinds of fulfillment as well as challenges. If you find yourself having difficulties in overcoming these challenges whether they are loss, trauma, or extreme stress related to school, work, relationships, you are not alone. When not dealt with, these challenges may interfere with your daily function and affect your capacity to achieve your potential. As a result, you may experience combination symptoms of insomnia, appetite and weight change, muscle tension and fatigue, inability to focus, depression, anxiety or more.
![Photo of Seetha Chandrasekhara, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c4597dc-abd0-4f35-8360-2d2ecd3e975a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Seetha Chandrasekhara is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. She completed her undergraduate studies in Behavioral Neuroscience at Lehigh University. After college, she attended medical school at Temple. and stayed on at Temple to complete her residency in general psychiatry and serve as Chief Resident her last year. While in residency, she completed a master's in Urban Bioethics, and she went on to complete her geriatric psychiatry fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Chandrasekhara is board certified in General Psychiatry and Geriatric Psychiatry.
Dr. Seetha Chandrasekhara is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. She completed her undergraduate studies in Behavioral Neuroscience at Lehigh University. After college, she attended medical school at Temple. and stayed on at Temple to complete her residency in general psychiatry and serve as Chief Resident her last year. While in residency, she completed a master's in Urban Bioethics, and she went on to complete her geriatric psychiatry fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Chandrasekhara is board certified in General Psychiatry and Geriatric Psychiatry.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/291e595b-0d68-4b72-89f8-a8378dcc5927/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Anthony R Carlino, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4f877e0-a6c5-4e48-a22b-782985a53754/2/320x400.jpeg)
Johns Hopkins and University of Pennsylvania trained psychiatrist offering both psychotherapy and medication management. I have extensive experience in treating individuals who struggle with anxiety and/or emotional challenges, in addition to life transitions, professional development, and relationship difficulties. Most of my patients seek care with me to receive psychotherapy with the option of medications (if appropriate) under a single provider in a discrete private practice setting. I also work with couples seeking relationship counseling.
Johns Hopkins and University of Pennsylvania trained psychiatrist offering both psychotherapy and medication management. I have extensive experience in treating individuals who struggle with anxiety and/or emotional challenges, in addition to life transitions, professional development, and relationship difficulties. Most of my patients seek care with me to receive psychotherapy with the option of medications (if appropriate) under a single provider in a discrete private practice setting. I also work with couples seeking relationship counseling.
![Photo of Jeffrey Shralow, MSN, PMHNP, CRNP, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e1bd81f-5614-415e-8b7e-2121cf7d3270/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey Shralow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CRNP, MA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19130
If you are struggling with depression, alienation, anxiety, and/or trauma related distress, I will offer you a path to healing and transformation. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a holistic orientation, I offer psychotherapy with an emphasis on transpersonal and spiritual perspectives. My therapeutic work is grounded in Jungian, psychodynamic and humanistic practices, and is deeply informed by ecological and Buddhist psychologies. My therapeutic style is genuine and open, with focus toward growth and actualization. I also offer harm reduction consultation related to psychiatric symptom management.
If you are struggling with depression, alienation, anxiety, and/or trauma related distress, I will offer you a path to healing and transformation. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a holistic orientation, I offer psychotherapy with an emphasis on transpersonal and spiritual perspectives. My therapeutic work is grounded in Jungian, psychodynamic and humanistic practices, and is deeply informed by ecological and Buddhist psychologies. My therapeutic style is genuine and open, with focus toward growth and actualization. I also offer harm reduction consultation related to psychiatric symptom management.
![Photo of Rotimi M Williams, CRNP, MBBS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d56f32f-89fa-4275-a6ae-11aed366ce91/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rotimi M Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, MBBS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19120
I have worked in psychiatry for many years and feel that it's my life purpose! I don't consider this to be a job, it's what I love to do. I've worked in a variety of settings (inpatient and outpatient) with people of all ages, which has given me the expertise and the courage to unravel the complex mental health conditions that inflict so many. I always make mental health simple for my clients, and work with patients to find an approach that feels right for them. Whether you're experiencing ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood swings, or something entirely different, I promise it will help to reach out!
I have worked in psychiatry for many years and feel that it's my life purpose! I don't consider this to be a job, it's what I love to do. I've worked in a variety of settings (inpatient and outpatient) with people of all ages, which has given me the expertise and the courage to unravel the complex mental health conditions that inflict so many. I always make mental health simple for my clients, and work with patients to find an approach that feels right for them. Whether you're experiencing ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood swings, or something entirely different, I promise it will help to reach out!
![Photo of Dr. Johan Othmer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2953088-224e-4491-b97e-6541c7851a9b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Othmer is an Attending Psychiatrist at Talkiatry and is double board-certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. Before joining Talkiatry, Dr. Othmer moved to Lititz, PA in 2011, worked at Philhaven (now Wellspan Philhaven) in both the York & Mount Gretna Child & Adolescent Partial Programs (2011-2016). Followed by working at Lancaster General Hospital Outpatient; C+L, and Inpatient coverage; PA Counseling, and TeamCare Behavioral Health during the Pandemic. During this time, he developed a commitment to optimizing the patient experience and removing treatment barriers.
Dr. Othmer is an Attending Psychiatrist at Talkiatry and is double board-certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. Before joining Talkiatry, Dr. Othmer moved to Lititz, PA in 2011, worked at Philhaven (now Wellspan Philhaven) in both the York & Mount Gretna Child & Adolescent Partial Programs (2011-2016). Followed by working at Lancaster General Hospital Outpatient; C+L, and Inpatient coverage; PA Counseling, and TeamCare Behavioral Health during the Pandemic. During this time, he developed a commitment to optimizing the patient experience and removing treatment barriers.
![Photo of Oluwatobi Emmanuel Menawonu, FNP, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7326e4d3-9c68-4959-bb7f-398886a25170/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oluwatobi Emmanuel Menawonu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19114
Looking for holistic and a well - rounded metal health ? Search no further , we specialize in creative affirming and energetic approach for a healthier YOU!
Looking for holistic and a well - rounded metal health ? Search no further , we specialize in creative affirming and energetic approach for a healthier YOU!
![Photo of John G Wilson III, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b0f464a-0c87-4065-9294-6dcd590b6137/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who works hard to practice psychotherapy and psychopharmacology in both a private & supportive setting. While I strongly believe in pharmacologic interventions backed by empirical evidence, I am a firm believer in the value of therapy & more holistic interventions (exercise, diet, meditation, mindfulness). I understand the importance of shoring up wellness rather than treating illness, and you can expect to spend a significant amount of time discussing the importance of sleep, fitness and nutrition, in addition to tackling deeper psychological issues.
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who works hard to practice psychotherapy and psychopharmacology in both a private & supportive setting. While I strongly believe in pharmacologic interventions backed by empirical evidence, I am a firm believer in the value of therapy & more holistic interventions (exercise, diet, meditation, mindfulness). I understand the importance of shoring up wellness rather than treating illness, and you can expect to spend a significant amount of time discussing the importance of sleep, fitness and nutrition, in addition to tackling deeper psychological issues.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
Nearby Searches for Philadelphia
- Ardmore
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- Bryn Mawr
- Drexel Hill
- Gladwyne
- Haverford
- Havertown
- Jenkintown
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- Sharon Hill
- Upper Darby
- Wynnewood
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
200+
Average cost per session
$215
Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Medication Management |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Philadelphia?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.